Frozen In Scarborough

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1- 8 1s+3s turn partner RH into Balance-in-Line position (Men above partners); 1s+3s set (Highland Schottische setting changing hands as required)
9-12 1s and 3s turn partner RH to opposite sides while 2M casts up to between 1s facing down and 2L casts down to between 3s facing up
13-16 All set and change places RH with person opposite
17-24 All set and 2s Petronella turn to opposite sides (3) (2) (1); 2s turn to right and dance ½ RSH reels of 3 on sides
25-32 All set and cross RH with partner, 1s face out; 1s+2s change places (Men LH, Ladies RH), 1s+3s change places (Men RH, Ladies LH) 231

(MINICRIB. Dance crib compiled by Charles Upton, Deeside Caledonian Society, and his successors)

Dance Information

The town lies on the North Sea, rising from its harbour to limestone cliffs between 10 and 70 metres above sea level. The older part of Scarborough developed around the harbour, sheltered by a rocky headland that extends into the sea. Fishing and service industries remain important, though tourism and creative sectors now play a major role in the local economy.

The name originates from the Viking Thorgils Skarthi, who is said to have founded a stronghold here in the tenth century, giving rise to "Skarthi's burh". Earlier activity on the site includes a Roman signal station built in the fourth century to warn of sea raiders, and archaeological evidence of Stone Age and Bronze Age settlement. In 2021, excavations at Eastfield uncovered a Roman villa complex with a bathhouse and unique architectural features, described as one of the most significant Roman discoveries in Britain in recent years.

Scarborough grew under King Henry II, who built a stone castle on the headland and granted charters in the twelfth century. The town became known for Scarborough Fair, a six-week trading festival established in 1253 that attracted merchants from across Europe and continued for five centuries. During the English Civil War, the castle changed hands multiple times between Royalists and Parliamentarians, leaving much of the town in ruins. In 1626, the discovery of mineral waters led to the development of Scarborough Spa, which became Britain's first seaside resort. The arrival of the railway in 1845 expanded tourism further, making the town a popular destination for visitors from across the country.

Scarborough was bombarded by German warships in 1914 during the First World War, an attack that shocked Britain. Later in the twentieth century, the town became associated with big-game tuna fishing, attracting international attention and record catches.

The town's geography is defined by its headland, which divides the seafront into North Bay and South Bay. North Bay is home to Peasholm Park, the miniature North Bay Railway, and an open-air theatre, while South Bay contains the harbour, sandy beach, and main tourist attractions. Scarborough Mere, once a popular boating lake, is now part of Oliver's Mount Country Park.

Scarborough's climate is temperate, with mild summers and cool winters. Tourism remains central to the economy, making the town one of the most visited destinations in England.

Frozen Ouse - View From Scarborough Bridge To Lendal Bridge

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